Missouri Tint Laws: What Darkness is Legal? (2025)
Contributor
Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.
Editor
Summary
- Missouri limits front-side window tint to 35% VLT
- Rear windows may have any tint level
- Breaking Missouri tint laws may lead to fines
Dark-tinted windows look appealing and make it easier to see when it’s sunny out. However, before turning your windows a shade darker, you should make sure your desired shade is compliant with Missouri tint laws.
Legal Window Tint Darkness by Vehicle Type
Some states have different tint regulations for passenger cars than for vans and SUVs. In Missouri, regulations are the same for all vehicle types:
- Windshield: Tinted up to manufacturer’s AS-1 line
- Front Side Windows: 35% visible light transmission (VLT) or greater
- Back Side Windows: Any tint level
- Rear Windows: Any tint level
Window tint is generally measured by the percentage of light it allows through. The higher the VLT value, the lighter the tint on the window.
Rules on Window Tint Reflection
In Missouri, window tint must be no more than 35% reflective.
Additional Window Tint Regulations
In Missouri, vehicles must have both side mirrors if the rear windows are tinted. Missouri also allows those with valid medical exemptions to tint their windows darker.
Why Missouri Regulates Window Tint
Missouri tint laws may seem inconvenient, but they are primarily in place for safety reasons. Too-dark windows may lead to car accidents by impairing visibility, and overly reflective tint may cause a dangerous level of glare.
Legal Consequences of Improper Tint
Getting pulled over for illegal tint could result in a warning, but it also could lead to a ticket and a fine. In Missouri, violating window tint laws is a Class C misdemeanor. Offenders may have to pay a $75 fine (plus a $30 administrative fee if the vehicle is registered in Missouri).
In some cases, you may be issued a “fix-it ticket” for a violation. With a fix-it ticket, the fine and charges will be dropped if you can prove to the court that you’ve fixed the issue.
Tint Law Reference and State Info
Missouri tint laws are outlined in Section 307.173 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri.
Cited for Illegal Tint?
If you’ve been ticketed for breaking tint laws, a traffic lawyer may be able to help you fight the charges. And if you’ve been hurt in a crash caused by illegal tint, a Missouri personal injury lawyer could help you recover compensation.
No matter what kind of lawyer you need, ConsumerShield is here for you. We match people in need of legal help with qualified attorneys in their area. Fill out our contact form for a free case review!
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Frequently Asked Questions
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While a ticket for tint won’t have the same impact that a speeding ticket would, some insurers may raise your rates if you’re cited for illegal tint.
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Not especially. While Missouri requires side windows at the front of the vehicle to be lighter than most states do, it doesn’t restrict the tint on the back side or rear windows at all.
- Missouri State Highway Patrol Publication SHP-510.https://apps.mshp.dps.mo.gov/MSHPWeb/Publications/Brochures/documents/SHP-510.pdf.
- Specifications for Sun-Screening Device Applied to Windshield or Windows—Permit Required, When—Exceptions—Rules, Procedure—Violations, Penalty.https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=307.173.
